Extractions in support of orthodontic treatment.

Extractions in support of orthodontic therapy may be done in any combination of teeth. The more common extraction patterns are: 1. Maxillary and mandibular first premolars; 2. Maxillary first and mandibular second premolars; 3. Maxillary and mandibular second premolars; 4. Maxillary first premolar; 5. Maxillary second permanent molar; 6. Maxillary first permanent molars; 7. Maxillary permanent lateral incisors; 8. Mandibular permanent incisors; or 9. Any possible combination and variation for other considerations. Extractions have been proven to support changes in the profile, helping in the alignment of teeth and in reducing lower facial height. The decision as to whether or not to extract requires a great deal of thoughtful application of diagnostic skills.